One of the best things about living in Chicago is that we walk e v e r y w h e r e.  The grocery store is less than a block away. The library is right around the corner.  Lake Michigan is a mere 10 minute stroll from our front door.  I feel so lucky […]

This post is the 14th in the series “Homemade Mother of the Week.” If you know a woman who is thoughtfully sharing her passion for the planet, families or the well-being of others, please nominate her for this special recognition.  Send an email with all the details to maureen@homemademothering.com This week I am so happy to […]

Sweet little Vivian. As the third child, she is the hand-me-down queen in our house.  All of her clothes belonged to Evie four years ago.  Most of her toys are a bit ragged thanks to Mack’s not-so-gentle touch.  She really doesn’t have much to call her own.  It’s time for her to claim ownership of […]

Christmas is fast approaching, and like most parents I am busy squirreling away boxes of treats and treasures, crossing my fingers that curious kids don’t stumble upon a secret gift. We follow a WANT.NEED.WEAR.READ mantra with holiday gift-giving: the kids get a gift or two from each of the four categories.  It keeps me focused […]

In just a few weeks, on April 22, the world will celebrate Earth Day.  As a Homemade Mother I strive to teach my kids about taking care of our planet every day, a somewhat daunting mission with a 2 and 3 1/2 year old.  They are careful to turn off lights, put trash in a […]

I am such a sucker for the Christmas season.  I often say that I wish this holiday fell later in winter just so I could have something to look forward to during these dreary and chilly months.  The house feels so much warmer with the Christmas decorations up, and the kids love the change in […]

Lately, Evie has been asking a lot of questions about where we live and our planet.  I’m often fielding inquiries from her such as “Is Chicago our city?” “Do we take an airplane to Mexico?” “Is this the way to Granmary’s house??”  She loves looking at maps, whether it be the one at the bus […]

While reading a recent issue of Green Child Magazine I found an article about an interesting and inspiring woman named Nancy Traversy.  When her first child was born, she was looking for books with beautiful artwork that explored different cultures and didn’t talk down to children.  At a loss to find a collection of books […]